After a four-year closure, a subtle rebranding and “extensive” renovations, one of Bermuda’s oldest restaurants returns for fine diners, just in time for the festive season.

But if you are looking to get in at The Waterlot steakhouse at the end of Jews Bay, Southampton, over the holidays, you must take advantage of the new online booking system at TheWaterlot.bm.

Online bookings are preferred.

Much like before, clients will eventually be able to arrive on the water for dinner, because of the rebuilding of the restaurant’s private jetty.

The facility’s closure came around the time that operations at the Fairmont Southampton shut down because of the pandemic and the planned hotel renovations.

The Waterlot Inn dates back (circa 1670) truly to Bermuda’s early days. Only Tom Moore’s Tavern (1652) in the East End is older.

Today, it has been quietly renamed The Waterlot, and may quickly recapture its position as one of the island’s finest restaurants. The seating capacity remains at about 150 guests.

Next week, it will be open for dinner seating, Wednesday to Sunday. It will also be open for special days, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.

Area director for sales and marketing at the Fairmont Southampton, Simon Boden, said: “The Waterlot has been closed for approximately four years, with its reopening marking a pivotal part of the larger transformation of Fairmont Southampton.”

He said: “The Waterlot offers an unmatched variety of premium steaks and meats from the grill, complemented by modern classics, sourced from around the world.”

Mr Boden would not say how much work went into the refurbishments at the restaurant and the dock, but he did said there were “significant updates to align with modern dining preferences”.

He said: “The renovations at The Waterlot have been both thoughtful and extensive, carefully protecting its timeless character. The interiors have been reimagined with fresh furnishings and design elements that draw inspiration from Bermuda's rich cultural heritage.”

The restaurant will employ approximately 40 staff, including executive chef Hamish Lindsay, who has nearly 30 years of global culinary expertise from destinations including Fairmont Jakarta and Aman Resorts.

Maître D’ Barry Cohen returns to Bermuda after leading The Waterlot’s transformation into a steakhouse from 2004 to 2012. He brings a wealth of international experience, having worked with Mandarin Oriental and in more than 30 countries.